Cal. Code Regs. tit. 15 § 3211 : Crime Prevention and Corrections — Adult Institutions, Programs and Parole — Rules and Regulations of Adult Operations and Programs — Inmate Activities — Religious Program — Inmate Ministers
(a) When a chaplain of a particular faith cannot be obtained to conduct services within a facility housing inmates of that faith, the institution head may at their discretion and subject to such controls reasonably required for facility security, designate a qualified inmate to minister to the religious needs of inmates for that specific faith. In determining the qualifications of an inmate to conduct such services, the institution head will, whenever possible, seek the advice and counsel of outside religious leaders of that faith.
(b) An inmate shall not be assigned as a minister on a full-time basis in lieu of a regular inmate work/training incentive program assignment, be considered as a state employee, or be paid by the state for their services.